Title: The MONUSCO transition process in the DRC: Consultations in Uvira raise hopes for a gradual withdrawal
Introduction :
Bringing together representatives of MONUSCO, the Congolese government and civil society, the consultation workshop on the transition process of MONUSCO in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was held recently in Uvira, South Kivu . This event provided an opportunity to discuss the future of the UN mission in the country and how Congolese structures can be strengthened to support the country’s security and development. In this article, we will examine the perspectives offered by this transition and the opinions expressed during the workshop.
Discussions for a gradual withdrawal:
During the workshop, the provincial minister of the ITPR in South Kivu, Gaston Cissa wa Numbe, expressed his wish for a gradual withdrawal of MONUSCO and a strengthening of the capacities of Congolese structures. According to him, it is essential that the country take charge of its own security and development, relying on its own resources. He therefore proposed that Congolese armed groups be encouraged to join the Disarmament, Demobilization and Community and Civil Reintegration Program (PDDRCS), thus providing an opportunity for former combatants to integrate into formal and legalized systems.
The necessary support from MONUSCO and development partners:
Gaston Cissa wa Numbe also stressed the importance of continued support from MONUSCO and development partners to build the capacity of Congolese defense and security forces. In particular, he suggested that efforts be made to rehabilitate the road infrastructure in the South Kivu region, in order to facilitate the interventions of the Congolese forces. This measure would improve the responsiveness of security forces to security threats and strengthen the presence of the State in remote areas.
Conclusion :
The consultation workshop on the MONUSCO transition process in the DRC made it possible to discuss the ways forward for a gradual withdrawal of the UN mission and capacity building of Congolese structures. The prospects offered by this transition arouse the hope of a country capable of taking charge of its own security and development. It now remains to translate these discussions into concrete actions in order to ensure a successful transition towards a sovereign and prosperous Congo